Though Michelle Kask never had plans to travel to China, in April she will embark on a fascinating trip to see a country she never dreamed of visiting.
The Abbotsford school district employee was “in disbelief” to learn she had won the trip in a contest held by the Chamber of Commerce and the Abbotsford News.
Though Kask never planned on seeing China, a love of travel pushed her to enter the contest.
“It’s just a whole different world over there. The things I’m going to see, I’m sure, will be amazing and wonderful and things I would never get a chance to see if I hadn’t won the contest.”
The trip, which is organized by the Chamber of Commerce and open to the public, takes place from April 4 to 12, visiting four of China’s leading cities – Beijing, Suzhou, Hangzhou and Shanghai, including a visit to the Great Wall of China.
Kask said she and her husband Sean travelled before their two children were born, and she is thrilled to have the opportunity to do so again. Kask is planning to bring her husband along on the trip to China.
She said she is thrilled to be visiting the Great Wall of China, and as a lover of green tea, is excited to visit a factory to see how it gets made.
Allan Asaph, executive director of the chamber, has travelled to China on the same trip. He said learning about the history and culture of the country from experienced guides “totally changed my understanding of China.
“We are delighted to have Michelle coming with us on our trip, and we know it is just going to be a fascinating experience for her.”
The chamber will host an information meeting Dec. 9 at the Cascade Community Church (35190 DeLair Rd.) at 7 p.m. to provide information and answer questions about the trip.
The cost is $2,499 per person for chamber members and guests and $2,649 for non-members. There is an additional $500 charge for single occupancy. The price includes round-trip international airfare from Vancouver, accommodation in four- and five-star hotels, three meals per day, all in-country transportation, experienced English-speaking tour guides and all tour fees.
For information visit www.abbotsfordchamber.com/pages/China or call 604-859-9651.